The Chinese Cultural Centre in Fiji recently held a cultural exchange lecture showcasing the long-standing fishing traditions of Hainan Province, China, and their similarities with Fiji’s fishing practices. The lecture, themed “Genglubu” or the “menu of the South Sea Route,” focused on ancestral navigation and fishing knowledge, emphasizing the need to preserve these practices for future generations.
Wang Zhen Zhong, the director of the Hainan Museum, highlighted the vital link between culture and identity. He noted, “Hainan and Fiji rely on the ocean for sustenance and livelihood, reflecting mutual values in sustainable fishing practices.” He mentioned that both regions aim to maintain ecological balance by implementing regulations that limit fishing seasons to safeguard marine populations.
Nanise Kuridrani, a principal research officer from the Ministry of Fisheries, underscored the significance of traditional ecological knowledge. She discussed the importance of community-based management and aquaculture as methods to reduce the strain on coastal fisheries. “This collaborative effort between Fiji and Hainan seeks to enhance sustainable fishing methods and preserve cultural heritage,” she stated.
The lecture marked progress towards building partnerships that facilitate knowledge exchange. As modernization increasingly influences traditional fishing techniques, both communities are dedicated to maintaining their maritime identities. Mr. Wang emphasized the importance of documenting these narratives to ensure they endure for future generations.